Resources for Competency 4.7:

Physical Space Supports Self-management

The professional working with young children arranges and facilitates the use of the physical space and materials in ways that support healthy development, self-management, and cooperation

Resources & Media for Understanding Competency 4.7

Behaviors & Skills

a

Elicits children's input about room arrangement and materials

b

Designs the environment so that each child has a space for personal items to ensure his/her sense of belonging and security within the community

c

Ensures that walkways as well as gathering and work spaces have enough room for children to move and interact comfortably

d

Sets clear boundaries in the physical environment that help children know where centers begin and end

e

Separates noisy centers from quieter ones to help children concentrate

f

Places furniture so that various seating arrangements can be used: individual, small group, whole group

g

Includes a space for large muscle activity and movement

h

Designs a space for children to "cool off" or to be alone

i

Intentionally selects materials that foster discovery, inquiry, imagination, and creativity, and that actively support a variety of goals

j

Labels materials (when useful to children) using pictures and words, and places them so that children can access them independently

k

Includes input from families and observes children to identify children's favorite toys/materials in order to encourage engagement and interaction

l

Regularly evaluates the amount/number, relevance, and types of materials available as they relate to children's interests, development, level of stimulation, and curriculum content. Adds or removes materials as necessary